Wisconsin Football: Projected 2-deep depth chart for 2017

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INDIANAPOLIS, IN – DECEMBER 03: Jazz Peavy #11 of the Wisconsin Badgers reacts after making a first down catch in the first quarter of the Big Ten Championship game against the Penn State Nittany Lions at Lucas Oil Stadium on December 3, 2016 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Bobby Ellis/Getty Images) /

Wide Receiver

Starting receivers: Jazz Peavy, Quintez Cephus
Backups: A.J. Taylor, George Rushing

If you are a wide receiver at Wisconsin, there is no telling what is in store for you. The Badgers saw many different receivers get in on the action last year, but were supported by their two big names, Jazz Peavy and Robert Wheelwright.

Whether it’s screens, jet sweeps, or end arounds — the Badgers’ receivers will be sure to have an even bigger role and factor in the team’s success, especially with the return of Jazz Peavy.

What makes this unit unique is that each player has their own skill and feat they excel at and offer a variety of different threats and weapons. Peavy, of course, will be the go-to guy for Hornibrook and the offense and offers that big-play ability all over the field. His spectacular route-running and his ability to get away from defense’s will help him out tremendously despite being the No. 1 guy.

Quintez Cephus is likely to be the next guy up stepping into the starting squad and will offer that big-time vertical presence. He is having a killer preseason and has produced nothing but positive and exciting expectations surrounding him. With his ability to go up and get any ball his way, paired with Peavy’s speed and finesse — they make for a good combination on offense and a strong complement to the run game.

A.J. Taylor will likely play in the slot as the Badgers will try and utilize his explosive speed and athleticism. It would not be surprising if Taylor became the number one guy on kick and punt returns.

Wisconsin will also look to see improvements from George Rushing, who had a bit of a down 2016 season as a freshman. Coming in to the program, big things were expected from Rushing- and after starting as the team’s No. 3 guy last year, he saw his action cut down due to the emergence of Cephus and Taylor. Rushing could provide an extra spark from the sidelines.

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